Electric Guitars and Basses: A Photographic History

Rating:
Summary: Good reference
Review: I have 5 books about electric guitars and this is the one which I like best. The photos are large and of good quality - you will not get tired of appreciating them time and again. I do not give it 5 stars because the first part (hawaiian guitars) is too big and there is also a complete section about Fender colors which I think adds nothing to the book. There are many Gibsons, Fenders, Gretsches, Rickenbakers, Guilds, Nationals, Epiphones, etc. There are no Japanese or Korean makers. Anyway, buy it and you will not regret.

Rating:
Summary: Great pictoral history
Review: This lavishly illustrated book includes electric guitars from the major manufacturers and includes great coverage of Fender and Gibson, in particular as well as Gretsch, Epiphone etc. There are quite a few photos of early electric guitars from the 30s and 40s. There is a section on Fender colors which is a treat since Fenders come in such a colorful variety (my own stratocaster is "daphne blue"). The book also includes photos of unique models that were introduced and then discontinued for lack of interest as well as custom models. The book isn't comprehensive, i.e, it does not cover the many stratocaster knockoffs including Fender's own Squier line. Still, for those interested in the development of the electric guitar, this is a great resource.